I just wanted to update on this thread - we've actually jumped in and are doing raw on our own. After much reading (and researching) and discussing with a few people on different forums.. and then even more reading, we are just doing it.

It's been a struggle getting Loki to eat since Monday night (we hand fed him the chicken for a couple of meals, and then watched him play around with his food the next couple of meals) but tonight.. tonight he ate everything down and was looking for more!

We need to find a better supplier(s).. but I do think it's totally doable on your own and not necessary to go with the pre-fab stuff (you can't be scared to just jump in and do it!)